Philadelphia 76ers fans will see more than one legend when they head to a game at Xfinity Mobile Arena during the 2026-27 NBA season. Longtime in-stadium announcer Matt Cord announced he was coming out of retirement for LeBron James‘ first season with the franchise.
The 76ers announced Cord’s return with a video on social media. In it, the team shows highlights from the past, with Cord’s voice muffled in the background. Meanwhile, a silhouette of a man is seen walking out to the center of the 76ers’ court.
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The video ends as the lights illuminate Cord, who then announces the return of “your 2026-27 Philadelphia 76ers.”
He also confirmed his return in a statement, saying, “This is going to be a special year,” per phl17.com.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to the mic as PA announcer for 76ers for one more season. Serving in this role for the past 28 years has been a dream come true, and I have been fortunate to witness so many memorable moments from the best seat in the house. This is going to be a special year, and I can’t wait to be back at Xfinity Mobile Arena with you all. Let’s go, 76ers!”
Cord, who had previously served as the team’s PA announcer for 28 seasons, announced in March that last year would be his final one in the role. In a short statement on X, Cord announced his decision, saying it had been a “privilege” to work for the team.
“I’ve had the best seat in the house announcing for the best fans in the world. Thank you to the players and the 76ers organization. What a privilege it’s been.”
Little did Cord know that the 76ers would make two major offseason additions. First, it was former Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown, who the 76ers acquired in a shocking offseason trade. Then, it was future Hall of Famer LeBron James, who announced he would take his talents to the City of Brotherly Love for his 24th NBA season.
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As it became clear the 76ers could be in for a special season, one franchise legend decided Cord needed to be there for the team and its fans. Allen Iverson texted Cord in July urging the announcer to come back for another year, per WMMR.
Iverson’s text read:
“Matt, your book’s not complete. You’ve got one more chapter. We need you, brother. AI.”
Turns out, getting a text from Iverson can be a pretty huge motivator. Whatever ultimately convinced Cord to return, he’s back now. And when James takes the court on Oct. 22 for the team’s first home game of the 2026-27 NBA season, a very familiar voice will be there to introduce him to 76ers fans for the first time.
